Being a Udaipurian, we are sure you have been to Thokar Chouraha, Maldas Street or Malla Talai. Have you ever thought- why are these places called by such strange names? What is the story or incident behind it? There are many such names of the areas that we are going to tell you in this article. Stay hooked!

Thokar Chouraha:

Thokar is a Hindi word which translates to stumble. Before, this square had a railway line which ended at this point. To stop bogies going further, railway staff placed stumbling blocks that stopped railway bogies from going further. So, people called it Thokar Chouraha.

Hiran Magri:

Hiran Magri translates to Deer Hill. According to local tradition, it was once a forested region where deer (Hiran in Hindi) were commonly spotted. Now you see the urbanization of this area, but it was covered with ridges known as Mangre in Hindi. Today, the area is urbanized, but the name remains a reminder of its past.

Malla Talai:

What is Mallah? Mallah were the people who used to manufacture boats near Lake Pichola. It is why residents named it after them. 

Maldas Street:

Let’s decode this- Maldas was a famous businessman in Udaipur. Hence, this street is a shopping zone for apparel, footwear, and cosmetics- in short, shopping heaven for ladies. Many such places in Udaipur are after the famous personalities of that area.

Rani Road:

Rani Road in earlier times was a hot spot for the Queen’s strolling. People say they used to come here and spend quality time. In the mornings and evenings, the Kings would walk here on Fatehsagar Road, also known as Raja Road.

Surajpole, Hathipole & Chandpole

In the King’s Era, walls protected the region under his kingdom. There were seven main huge gates from which people entered the city. These gates are known as pol. There are many stories behind naming the gates, and residents say that they are translated as per their specific Hindi names, like Hathipole meaning elephants of the kingdom used to stay here, Surajpole is named after the east direction gate as the sun rises in this direction and Chanpol as it is opposite to Surajpole signifying moon rise. 

Bhadbhuja Ghati

Bhadbhujas is a community that resides in Bhadbhuja Ghati. This community used to roast cereals in Bhaad ( a high-temperature clay oven) in earlier times. 

Sindhi Bazaar

Sindhi is a community that migrated to different cities after the India- Pakistan partition. Some people also come to Udaipur looking for work. This area was allotted to them to set up their business. Hence, it became popular in their Caste as Sindhi Bazaar.

Bhaang Gali

Bhaang Gali is a narrow lane inside Surajpole market. It has many Bhaang shops, so-called Bhaang gali. Well, you might be thinking- what is Bhaang? It is an edible marijuana concoction of the Indian subcontinent. Licensed shops here allow visitors to experience this, if interested.

Foota Darwaza

Meaning Broken Gate, Foota Darwaza was supposedly named after a large gate with broken doors. While the original gate is no longer present, the name persists. 

Saifan Chouraha:

Before Fatehpura Circle is Saifan Chouraha. Locals use Saifan for Siphon to refer to a tube that conveys liquid upwards or downwards from a reservoir. Earlier, there were two giant reservoirs that received water from tanks supplied to households.

Ayad

Ayad refers to an ancient civilization that thrived in Ahar, where remnants from the Mughal era are found. The Archaeological Department of India has excavated this site, revealing fascinating artifacts and architectural wonders.

Read Also : Best Places to Visit at Jaisamand

Conclusion:

Udaipur’s place names are a captivating blend of history, legend, and local life. These stories passed down through generations offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry. 

Stories are many and it’s up to you what you think. We were overwhelmed by the recitations of locals and thought we would share them with you. If you are a local and have a story to tell, please share it with us!